How do i get the plumbing plans for my house? I am adding a new bathroom and want to see the layout.?

Question

Could I go to the building department? How would I go about finding them?

Answer 1

your building department should have a copy on file or microfilm and you can get a copy for a small fee.

honestly this will be tough as no plumber ever places the plumbing as per plan.  the architectural plans are mearly a guidline as to what pipe sizes need to be installed and vented and how many openings are in your home for the water service line to be size properly.

mostly plumbers will install their pipe in accordance will the cities codes, but these pipes can run through walls, joist, ceiling joist, etc. any where they need to run them to reach the openings, fixtures and venting locations.

most of the time plumbing pipes and vent stacks are ran behind kitchen walls and bathroom wet walls (a wall where you shower valve is on or bathroom sink and watercloset/toilet).

check with your plumber or building department to verify that your existing water service can support the new fixtures, as some homes are maxed out.  a booster pump can be installed to meet the needs of the additional fixtures or if not you may have to replace the water service which can get expensive.